Denver’s backyard is a hiker’s paradise, offering an impressive array of trails that accommodate every skill level and interest. From gentle paths winding through meadows to scenic routes with spectacular mountain vistas, the Denver area boasts hiking opportunities perfect for both seasoned trekkers and families with young children. These accessible trails, many just a short drive from the city center, showcase Colorado’s diverse landscapes—from rolling foothills and dense forests to sparkling alpine lakes and cascading waterfalls—providing outdoor enthusiasts with countless options for day hikes and adventures.
Family Friendly Hikes
What makes the Denver hiking scene particularly special is its year-round accessibility and the variety of terrains available within a relatively compact region. Families visiting from out of state or locals looking for a quick nature escape can find trails suitable for toddlers and grandparents alike. Many of these paths feature amenities such as picnic areas, nature centers, and interpretive signage that enhance the outdoor experience. Whether you’re seeking a challenging workout with elevation gain or a leisurely stroll with stunning photo opportunities, Denver’s proximity to both mountain wilderness and urban green spaces ensures that the ideal trail is never far away.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park offers some of the most beloved family-friendly hiking experiences near Denver, with trails like Dream Lake and Emerald Lake providing beautiful scenery without demanding technical skills. Dream Lake, a moderate 2.2-mile round-trip hike, rewards visitors with fairy-tale views of a crystal-clear alpine lake reflecting the surrounding peaks. The trail begins at the popular Bear Lake trailhead and passes the equally charming Nymph Lake along the way. Going early in the morning not only helps avoid crowds but also offers the best chance to capture the lake’s mirror-like surface undisturbed by wind.
Just a bit further on the same trail system, Emerald Lake presents one of the park’s most accessible yet stunning destinations. At just 3.6 miles round trip with moderate elevation gain, this hike delivers three beautiful lakes and panoramic views of Hallett Peak. The well-maintained path makes it manageable for children while still offering the quintessential Rocky Mountain experience. For those seeking waterfall views, Adams Falls near Grand Lake provides an even shorter option at just 0.6 miles round trip. These iconic destinations showcase the best of Colorado’s high-country landscapes without requiring advanced hiking abilities or equipment.
Families with Young Children
For families with young children or visitors unaccustomed to altitude, Lair o’ the Bear Park offers one of the most accessible and enjoyable hiking experiences near Denver. Located in Bear Creek Canyon just west of the city, this Jefferson County Open Space park features a relatively flat trail that follows Bear Creek through a lush, shaded environment. The main Bear Creek Trail stretches for about 1.7 miles one-way and provides plenty of access points to the cool, refreshing creek, perfect for hot summer days when children want to splash in the shallows or toss stones in the water.
Beginners Hikes
Another excellent option for beginners is the Clear Creek Trail in Golden, which offers a paved path ideal for strollers, wheelchairs, and visitors of all abilities. This urban trail winds alongside Clear Creek through downtown Golden, providing a perfect blend of natural beauty and accessibility. Picnic tables, restrooms, and the amenities of Golden’s charming downtown make this an ideal choice for multi-generational family outings. Similarly, the Evergreen Lake Trail offers a 1.3-mile loop around a scenic mountain lake with minimal elevation change, complete with a nature center where visitors can learn about local wildlife and even rent canoes during summer months.
Idaho Springs
Bridal Veil Falls in Idaho Springs provides another easily accessible waterfall experience, viewable after a short walk from downtown Idaho Springs at Water Wheel Park. The historic setting adds cultural interest to the natural beauty, as visitors can learn about the area’s gold mining heritage while enjoying the cascade. For those willing to venture a bit farther into Rocky Mountain National Park, Copeland Falls in the Wild Basin area offers a rewarding waterfall experience just a short distance from the trailhead. These waterfall destinations are particularly impressive during spring runoff (typically May-June) when snowmelt dramatically increases water volume, though many remain photogenic year-round, with winter ice formations creating entirely different but equally stunning scenes.
